Diamond Awards Photography

The judges recognized that, with more than 25 years of experience, Kristen Olsen of The Dressmaker has the skills to transform the most important dress of your life. “Decades of experience and a full range of service puts The Dressmaker on top,” said one judge. Our panel realized the angst that comes with alterations and was confident in her skill. “Craftsmanship and authenticity is preserved while still making the look individual to the bride.” 3902 W. 50th St., Edina, 952-929-9475

The judges raved about Amanda Kautt’s North Loop boutique. “L’atelier Couture offers a refined, big-city shopping experience in a space that feels clean and unfussy," said one judge. They also recognized Kautt’s expertise. “Her eye for detail and quality is evident,” said another judge. “If you are looking for a couture gown, this is the place to go.” 219 N. 2nd St., Ste. 404, Mpls., 612-367-8120

“Romantic, modern, tradition—White Lace Cakes has it all,” said one judge. Our panel found the one-of-a-kind creations by chef Deborah Wright interesting and intriguing representations of the bride and groom’s personalities. Her vintage teacup cakes even caught our eye as a fun shower accessory. Added another judge: “A truly talented haven of artisans that are a master with some fondant and frosting.” Yum. 651-353-8746

“I love Chowgirls Killer Catering’s focus on local and seasonal ingredients,” said one judge. “And their refreshing and innovative take on the classics offers a refreshing break from the ordinary catered fare.” Our panel was also impressed by the unique and beautiful menu options and how the team’s fun approach to food transcends to the guests. “There’s nothing run of the mill about this caterer,” added another judge. Sounds like a winner to us. 1222 NE 2nd St., Mpls., 612-203-0786

One judge summed it up best: "Guests love photo booths." Added another judge: "Both icebreaker and entertainment, The Traveling Photo Booth offers old-fashioned fun for all ages and a great takeaway for guests and newlyweds alike." Your guests will love the interactive entertainment, and the pictures are a big plus at the end of the night. What a perfect keepsake to remember your momentous day! 916 26th Ave. NE, Mpls., 612-605-9203

“The results of an Amy Zaroff Events + Design event is so completely thorough, dreamy, and impressive, it makes me want to get married all over again!” exclaimed one judge. Lucky for our brides, they can use her the first time around. Our panel agreed that Amy Zaroff weddings have a lush, fully realized look. Added another judge: “The wow factor is in full effect.” And isn’t that what every bride is going for on her big day? 719 Washington Ave. S., Edina, 952-941-3371

“Bastian + Skoog exhibits a thoughtful eye for inventive design and adds a lush factor that any bride would die for,” said one judge. Our panel adored everything from these talented ladies. “Far from traditional but effortlessly timeless, these arrangements displayed unfettered imagination,” said a judge. If that doesn’t say it all, we don’t know what does. 310 N. 2nd St., Mpls., 612-333-6450

“Grooms can look just as stylish as their brides with Hammer-Made’s fashion-forward, modern selection,” said one judge. Owner Jason Hammerberg’s options astonished our judges. “For a man looking to invest in his wedding day look, this is it. He can get a quality-made custom suit, tie, and other accessories all in one place.” Guys, it doesn’t get any easier than that. Galleria, 952-681-2534

“Colors, fonts, designs, oh my!” said one judge. Beau Papier, a branch of Gateaux Inc., offers a noticeably fresh approach. And that originality is precisely what appealed to our judges. Added another judge: “Beau Papier has the talent to do it all.” 15705 35th Ave. N., Plymouth, 763-577-9815

The judges were amazed by the impeccable preservation of the beautiful old Van Dusen Mansion, which makes not only for a comfortable reception, but also an amazing backdrop for photographs. The judges recognized that its location on the edge of downtown is easy and accessible for guests to get to. “Stately and serene, this venue is a gem.” 1900 LaSalle Ave., Mpls., 612-871-2702

Transportation is all about options, and our judges were amazed by the variety of selections at Renee’s Royal Valet. “The sheer number of vehicles—from trolleys to coaches and limos—assures there is something for all types of ceremonies,” said one judge. “They offer a wide selection of quality transportation, which is vital to any couple getting hitched.” 12813 Industrial Park Blvd., Plymouth, 763-551-1919

MyGuy Media

Our judges recognized that MyGuy Media’s skilled videography and careful editing really capture and preserve the entire day. Because the video is one of the few tangible keepsakes following the big day, our judges paid close attention to this videographer’s skilled and evocative footage, which resulted in “touching moments impeccably captured.” S 231 Burro Lane, Spring Valley, Wis., 715-928-0970

Extrados Salon & Spa wowed our panel of judges. “These stylists understand that brides want to look like the best version of themselves rather than some glammed up, overly coiffed bridal cliché,” said one judge. Our panel recognized that Extrados goes the extra mile to help every bride look her most beautiful. One judge summed it up perfectly: “Classic style meets modern sophistication.” And, really, it doesn’t get any better than that. 4279 Sheridan Ave. S., Mpls., 612-920-0051

“Wow! Indulge & Bloom delivers events that completely take the cake!” said one enthused judge. “Their team seems skilled at transforming any space or home into a memorable wedding venue that looks exciting and of-the-moment,” added another. Our panel was decidedly impressed with Indulge & Bloom's coordinated, professional, and elegant approach to its events. “They are pulled off with immaculate precision and attention to detail,” said a judge. “Gorgeous and opulent without being overdone.” 3054 Excelsior Blvd., Mpls.; Gaviidae Common, 612-343-0000

“Capturing the fun and the formal, the love and the lighthearted, you’d think that each wedding Olive Juice Studios photographs is their best friend’s,” said one judge. And the others agreed. Each judge was impressed by this photographer’s ability to capture scene-stealing shots in a comfortable manner. “The subjects always look like they’re being themselves and having a fun, relaxed time,” said one judge. “It’s those moments, forever preserved, that make the most beautiful photographs,” said another. Sounds picture perfect to us. 952-920-6958

Fans of Brovado Weddings flocked to our voting page to praise photographer Preston Palmer’s outstanding work behind the lens. His photojournalistic approach to capturing weddings is both professional and refreshing. Voters were wowed by his quality service and the manner in which his images tell the story of true wedded bliss. 2355 Fairview Ave. N., Ste. 171, Roseville, 612-242-8655

Real Wedding of the Year

Josh and Erica Lawrenz

The Diamond Awards were created mainly to acknowledge outstanding vendors, but we didn’t want to leave out brides completely. With that in mind, we reserved this category just for you. This year’s winning Real Wedding of the Year couple is Josh and Erica Lawrenz. “There’s something so fun and fantastic about the look of this think-outside-the-box wedding,” said one judge. “You can tell every detail was special to the bride, who planned it all with the help of her involved and enthused groom.” With flowers by Richfield Flowers & Events, and invitations and cake designed by Gateaux Inc., it’s evident that “much thought, love, and effort went into each and every detail” of this wedding at The Enchanted Barn in Hillsdale, Wisconsin. Added another judge: “There was’t a detail missing.”

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Emily Howald Sefton said "I Do" to the role of Weddings editor and after a few years of veils and venues, she added wallpaper and wainscoting to her scope by becoming the Deputy Editor of Home & Design.